§ 14. Mr. Skinnardasked the Minister of Food how many local authorities have now established food hygiene councils; and what assistance is given by his Department in the formation of such organisations.
§ Mr. StracheyMy Department is not necessarily consulted about the formation of food hygiene councils, so I do not know how many local authorities have set them up. If consulted, we can provide information about leaflets, posters, films and speakers and put the inquirer into touch with local authorities already operating councils or guilds of this type.
§ Mr. SkinnardAm I to understand that my right hon. Friend is of the opinion that such councils are performing very useful services?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir, I think so.
§ Mr. A. Edward DaviesHas my right hon. Friend received widespread complaints about the manner in which food is served in the country generally, particularly to tourists and so on, as many hon. Members have been approached on this matter?
§ Mr. StracheyIf there is room for improvement—and no doubt there is—I think these food hygiene councils can play a very useful part.
§ Captain CrookshankWill the right hon. Gentleman say exactly what they do?
§ Mr. StracheyOne local authority—Guildford, as a matter of fact—whose work I inspected, appears to carry on a consistent propaganda for the improvement of hygiene in the retailing of food, which seems a praiseworthy object.